Eugene Demond Williams Jr., the rookie quarterback for Washington, had a great start to the game with a confident pass fired deep for a significant gain on his first play. The audience at Autzen Stadium fell into a tense, although incredibly short, silence.
The remainder of the evening had to feel like being struck by socks stuffed with bars of soap and taste like field turf.
In a 49-21 thumping of the Huskies on Saturday, Oregon tied a program mark with 10 sacks, demonstrating its renowned defense once more as the Ducks look to make a deep postseason run.
Only 244 yards were permitted, 75 of which occurred during garbage time while both sides’ reserves were present. 16 tackles for loss, a huge total. And a total of 29 sacks, which was more than one-third of the team’s total from its first 11 games.
Oregon coach Dan Lanning stated, “We didn’t think we’d have that many opportunities to be able to actually rush the passer coming into the game.” In order to maybe restrict the opportunity to do it, we were expecting a screen game and a few runs. We discussed making the most of the possibilities we did have, and as soon as the score shifted to our favor, we had more chances.
Even though he only played a few snaps, it didn’t hurt to have pass rusher Jordan Burch return from injury. Making the most of his time on the field, he finished with 2.5 total after picking up two sacks on the same drive in the third quarter.
After battling an ankle injury, Burch noted, “It felt great to be back out with my teammates.” Deep down, it pained to be harmed and to watch them play. However, I have complete faith in their abilities. Because of the way we prepare, I was certain that they would rush the quarterback whenever they had the chance to get home.
With a sack from Derrick Harmon and two more from Matayo Uiagalelei, the season total now stands at 10.5 and ties DeForest Buckner (2015) and Peter Brantley (1989) for 10th place in Oregon history in a single season.
Furthermore, Uiagalelei is only a sophomore.
I think he’s quite decent. “Lanning said.” The guy, in my opinion, plays with unrelenting intensity. The killer instinct is one of the topics we discuss in relation to development. Currently displaying that murderous instinct, Matayo has emerged as one of the most difficult players to block in college football.
Senior captain Jeff Bassa joined rookie Jaeden Moore, whose participation thrilled teammates along the Oregon sideline, with half a sack apiece, while Teitum Tuioti had 1.5 sacks, Bryce Boettcher had one, and Jestin Jacobs had one.
The fact that so many players joined in to make Williams’ life tough all night long is evidence of the Oregon defense’s unwavering work ethic and ball-hunting.
According to Boettcher, “unrelenting effort is the main thing we preach and the number one pillar of our defense.” It begins in the conference room and in practice. Just seeing it on tape and choosing to hustle your ass to get to the ball, even if you’re only 15 or 20 yards away. And everyone believes it.
Ultimately, regardless of the strategy or game you’re running, you’ll do well if you have 11 players on defense playing harder than 11 players on offense.
No. 1 Oregon (12-0, 9-0 Big Ten) vs. No. 4 Penn State (11-1, 8-1) in the Big Ten championship game
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When:
Saturday, Dec. 7
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Time:
5 p.m. PT
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Where:
Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis
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TV channel:
CBS
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Stream:
Watch this game live for FREE with Fubo
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watch this game on cbssports.com
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